World Elder Abuse Day 2017: Care and safety of older Australians is an issue of national importance

LASA today welcomed the Australian Law Reform Commission (ALRC) Report on Elder Abuse – A National Legal Response.

LASA CEO Sean Rooney said with a rapidly ageing population in Australia there is an increased potential for elder abuse and in this context the report is timely.

“Our rapidly growing, ageing population is an issue of national importance for all Australians and this changing demographic raises a range of issues for us as a society, as well as the pressures and challenges it creates for the care and safety of older Australians,” Mr Rooney said.

“Australia has an internationally recognised aged care system that is highly regulated and is only one of a few OECD countries that requires all residential aged care homes to be formally accredited.”

Mr Rooney said the aged care industry is a high performing and professional sector, supported by a workforce that is passionate about providing quality care for older Australians.

“The aged care sector is already considering and reviewing issues around workforce, quality standards and the changing nature of the provision of care and this Report will be beneficial in informing those reviews,” Mr Rooney said.

“Any changes to existing standards and guidelines need to be considered with regard to their ability to efficiently and effectively improve safeguards for older Australians.”

Mr Rooney said on Elder Abuse Awareness Day, LASA reaffirms its position as a strong advocate for the delivery of safe, quality care and welcomes the national dialogue regarding elder abuse being undertaken by the Australian Law Reform Commission.